Join the Nagoya-Gifu chapter in an evening workshop on Saturday April 19, 2025 (6-8 pm): "Where Words Meet Music: Learning Language Through Song" by Ashley Ford-Mihashi, Nagoya City University (with a short student presentation by Chris Ho, Gifu Shotoku Gakuen University).
Research from psychology, linguistics, cognitive science and neuroscience has explored the connections between music and language and found striking similarities, from how they organize themselves into sounds categories, to the roles they play in evolution (Patel, 2008). But to what extent do music and language overlap? Can our abilities and training in one affect the other? And how can educators harness the power of music to improve students’ linguistic skills?
This interactive workshop examines how musical practice and performance engages students in developing phonetic awareness and expressive speech patterns, particularly stress, rhythm, and intonation. Participants will work collaboratively to analyze lyrics in a rap song and compete in a “rap battle” activity. Results from previous implementations of this activity will be shared, highlighting the challenges and successes of using music for language learning. Participants may also bring lyrics of their favorite song to discuss and apply techniques during the session!
As a Language teacher on weekdays and a cellist on weekends, Ashley Ford-Mihashi blends her passion for music and linguistics through performance-based activities to enhance language learning in her classroom.
JALT members, first-time visitors, and undergraduate students are free. Non-members are 1,000 yen. The event will be held in 研修室５０ of Heartful Square G ハートフルスクエアーG, which is right at JG Gifu Station.
Hope to see you there!
Address:
Heartful Square G ハートフルスクエアーG
研修室５０
1 Chome-10-23 Hashimotocho, Gifu, 500-8521
